The former Head Teacher of St Benedict's RC school has been charged with child abuse.

Father David Pearce, 69, was formerly accused (on Monday 22 November) of sexual abuse of a boy under the age of 16 years of age in the late 1970’s.

He has been released on technical bail to appear at West London Magistrates court on Friday 3 December.

Another man,
John Maestri, 71 of King Edward Rd, Chatham, Kent who was a maths teacher was also charged on Monday 22 November with sexual abuse of a boy under the age of 16 in the late 1970’s.

He has been released on bail to appear at West London Magistrates court on Friday 3 December.

Lord Carlile of Berriew is currently heading a wide-ranging investigation into child protection issues at the school and is expected to report his findings next year.

Parents of children at St Benedict's have been informed of the latest developments.

Headmaster Christopher Cleugh says the school and monastery are co-operating fully with the enquiry and adds, " We ask for your prayers for all affected by these latest allegations and for the School at this difficult time.''